Environmental benefits
Water quality monitoring
Located near the Sea Breeze Boulevard bridge, this project will allow real-time water quality monitoring—a major upgrade from the area’s current quarterly sampling program. Results will help establish a baseline for improving canal health.
Oyster filtration
Up to 700,000 oysters could eventually colonize the wall. Even at lower densities, this equates to over 1 million gallons of water filtered daily.
With its strategic location and scale, the seawall could annually filter the total volume of the Mayan Lake system—improving water quality throughout the surrounding canal network.
Seagrass growth & blue carbon
Clearer water fosters growth of seagrasses like shoal grass and manatee grass. These plants trap sediment, stabilize shorelines, and store carbon in their root systems—contributing to “blue carbon” climate strategies.
Habitat creation
The wall’s textured panels offer surfaces for crabs, juvenile fish, sea stars, and other benthic fauna. As biodiversity increases, it supports a more resilient food web.
Mangrove & marsh grass research
Floating docks and riparian zones allow researchers to study marsh grasses and mangroves side-by-side in an urban estuary. Findings may inform future restoration projects across Florida and beyond.
Economic benefits
Research & education
The site will serve as a live research platform for high school and college students, including those from local institutions like BC, FAU, and NSU.
Ecotourism
Improved biodiversity and visibility could support kayaking, snorkeling, and guided tours—bringing new economic opportunities to the area.
Aquaculture potential
As water quality improves, the canal could support shellfish aquaculture such as oysters, mussels, and shrimp.
Green jobs & workforce training
This project helps build the next generation of jobs in marine restoration, aquaculture, water monitoring, and sustainable infrastructure